Kyiv , Ukraine

Chernobyl Exclusion Zone 1-day tour

Active

(5 reviews)

11h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The price includes:
— Full visit to Chernobyl exclusion zone
— Transport support
— Organization of permits required to visit Zone
— Permissive documentation required for a visit 30km zone
— Permissive documentation required for a visit 10km zone
— Permissive documentation required for a visit the city of Pripyat
— Permissive documentation required for a visit (OTH) radar station “Duga”
— Professional guide in English
— Permission for the photo and video shooting

Available options

Chernobyl Exclusion Zone 1-day tour

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

WiFi on board

Professional guide

Round-trip shared transfer

Permission for the photo and video shooting

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

We meet 07:30 - passport check
07:30 – 09:30 - drive to the main check entrance to the Chernobyl Zone (make a 15 minutes stop on the gas station(toilet, coffee, sandwich)
09:30 – 10:00 - police \ passport control
10:00 - 11.30 - drive around and make some stops on the territory of Chernobyl power plant (we will see Reactors number 1,2,3 and 4, new Sarcophagus, new radioactive fuel storage facility, reactor 5 and cooling tower)
11.30 - 13.15 - Pripyat city (walk around the abandoned city. Amusement park (famous Ferris Wheel), hospital, river port, central square, swimming pool, cinema theater etc.
13.30 - 14.00 - Lunch in the canteen near the power plant.
14.00 - 15.00 - Military base with the famous RADAR STATION under the name DUGA (ballistic missiles detection system). The biggest Cold War monument left on the territory of Ukraine after Soviet Union time.
15.00-16.00 - Chernobyl town (make a stop on the central square to see the 3rd Angel Memorial. The biggest memorial on the territory of Chernobyl Zone dedicated to disaster.)
16.00- 16.20 Pass the radiation control and coming back to Kiev.
18.00 - 19.00 Arrive to Kiev.

Stop 2

We stop on the main city square in Pripyat, before taking a roughly 2-hour walk through the empty streets of this ‘ghost city.’
Along the way we’ll see the partially collapsed School No. 1, the highly radioactive hospital, the river port and the famous Pripyat Café; the Prometheus Cinema, the football stadium and the unused Ferris wheel, the swimming pool, and Hotel Polissya: which served as a base for the Soviet nuclear physicists sent in to examine the Zone after the accident.

Today Chernobyl Town is the administrative center of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone – featuring admin buildings, a police station, fire station, several hotels and restaurants, plus grocery stores. We’ll stop to visit the Third Angel monument, a memorial complex incorporating
a map of the Exclusion Zone along with nameplates of all the abandoned villages from the region.

The military base known as Chernobyl-2 was a top-secret facility built around the massive Duga-1 Radar Antenna: a transmitter
measuring 150 meters high, and 1 km in length. Designed to detect incoming ballistic missiles, the object was nicknamed the ‘Russian Woodpecker’ due to the tapping noise it transmitted across radio frequencies. Today it remains as one of the most impressive Cold War artifacts anywhere in Ukraine.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 1.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 18 years

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Dress code is formal

Important notes

• Dress code is formal
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• Minimum age is 18 years
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs or bikes) may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

About Kyiv

Kyiv, the capital and largest city of Ukraine, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern culture. Known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and lively arts scene, Kyiv offers a unique travel experience with its medieval cathedrals, golden-domed churches, and bustling modern districts.

Top Attractions

Saint Sophia Cathedral

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 11th-century cathedral is one of the oldest churches in Kyiv and features stunning mosaics and frescoes.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours 100 UAH

Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Kyiv Monastery of the Caves)

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic Orthodox Christian monastery is famous for its underground caves and golden-domed churches.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Free (some areas require tickets)

Independence Square (Maidan Nezalezhnosti)

The central square of Kyiv, known for its political significance and vibrant atmosphere. It's a hub for cultural events and protests.

Historical/Cultural 30 minutes to a few hours Free

Golden Gate of Kyiv

A reconstructed ancient gateway that once served as the main entrance to the city. It's a symbol of Kyiv's rich history and medieval architecture.

Historical 30-60 minutes 20 UAH

Andriyivsky Descent

A historic street with cobblestone steps, lined with art galleries, cafes, and souvenir shops. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Cultural/Shopping 1-2 hours Free (shopping and dining vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Borscht

A traditional beetroot soup, often served with sour cream and fresh bread. It can be made with or without meat.

Soup Vegetarian options available

Varenyky

Dumplings filled with various ingredients like potatoes, cheese, cabbage, or meat. They are often served with sour cream and onions.

Main Course/Snack Vegetarian options available

Holubtsi

Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of rice and minced meat, usually served with a tomato-based sauce.

Main Course Vegetarian options available

Deruny

Potato pancakes, often served with sour cream or mushroom sauce. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Side Dish/Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Boating Guided tours of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone Spa treatments River cruises Park picnics Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals. It's ideal for exploring the city's parks, riverside areas, and historical sites.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Ukrainian
Widely spoken: Russian, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts

Currency

Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH)

Time Zone

EET (UTC+2), EEST (UTC+3) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Kyiv is generally safe for tourists, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transportation. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or app-based services

Getting there

By air

Boryspil International Airport • 36 km from city center
Kyiv International Airport (Zhuliany) • 7 km from city center

By train

Kyiv Central Station, Kyiv-Pasazhyrsky Station

By bus

Kyiv Central Bus Station (TzUM), South Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Kyiv Metro is efficient, clean, and affordable, with three lines connecting major parts of the city. It's the fastest way to get around during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uklon, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Podil Pechersk Pechersk Lypky Obolon

Day trips

Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

130 km from Kyiv • Full day

A guided tour of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, offering a unique and sobering look at the site of the 1986 nuclear disaster.

Mezhygirya

20 km from Kyiv • Half day

A historic estate and park known for its beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and cultural significance.

Kaniv

130 km from Kyiv • Full day

A scenic town on the Dnipro River, known for its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and cultural significance.

Festivals

Kyiv Day • Last Sunday in May Kyiv International Film Festival • Late May to early June Wizz Air Kyiv City Jazz Festival • June

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Ukrainian to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Use the metro for fast and efficient transportation around the city
Try local street food and traditional dishes for an authentic taste of Ukrainian cuisine
Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore beyond the city center to discover hidden gems and local experiences